Senior Development Manager

• High-impact foundational hire | Strong Australian market experience required
• Entrepreneurial and hands-on role with broad exposure
• Melbourne CBD office-based role | $200k-$250k package + super + incentives

We are partnering exclusively with an energy start-up to help them find a Senior Development Manager to lead their Melbourne-based development team as the first hire. This is a rare opportunity to shape a new business, drive renewable and storage projects, and establish strategy and processes from day one.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the development of utility-scale and distributed BESS projects from origination through to delivery
• Secure land access, planning and environmental approvals, grid connections, and key stakeholder outcomes
• Build strong relationships with landholders, communities, Traditional Owners, consultants, investors, and EPC partners
• Collaborate with technical and commercial stakeholders to shape project design, strategy, and execution
• Support the growth of a high-performing, entrepreneurial development platform within a fast-moving energy business

Candidate Profile:

• 5–10 years’ experience in energy asset development, preferably renewables/BESS. Solid Australian experience required.
• Entrepreneurial, hands-on, and comfortable creating and building processes.
• Commercially minded with strong financial understanding.
• Thrives in start-up environments and can operate autonomously.
• Relevant qualifications in project management, environmental sustainability, commercial or engineering.

Additional Info:

• Confidential & Retained Search
• Location: Melbourne CBD | Full-time | Retained search
• Must have full working rights in Australia

What’s in it for you?

• First-hire, high-impact leadership role in a start-up environment.
• Opportunity to build and lead the development team and shape company culture.
• Lead renewable and storage projects, in both the sub5 space and utility-scale.
• Work alongside experienced investors and technical experts in a well-financed venture.

Equal Opportunity Statement:
All applicants will be considered without attention to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or veteran/disability status.
Application Instructions:
For a confidential conversation, please contact Anna Spain on +61 (0)3 9192 9920 or email anna@phillipriley.com.au, or "Apply" with a resume (WORD format) and brief cover letter addressing your suitability, quoting job reference JOB REF#3993925
Connect via LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/anna-spain-a789233
Follow us on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/phillip-riley